Following the success of the Vibrant Spaces initiative across the Manning Region, MidCoast Council has given the green light to extend the program to the town centres of Bulahdelah, Gloucester, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest, Pacific Palms and Stroud, on a six month trial basis.
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The concept behind Vibrant Spaces is that businesses use the footpath, free of charge, in return for some innovative thinking and a commonsense approach to adding colour, products, chairs and tables onto our streets.
The aim is to encourage people to stop, linger, shop and dine, which not only benefits local businesses, but makes for a more pleasant shopping experience.
The former Greater Taree City Council introduced the initial Vibrant Spaces trial in Taree’s town centre back in September 2014, which resulted in an overwhelming increase in sales, foot traffic and street vibrancy.
Following this trial, the program was implemented in Taree and extended to the town centres of Harrington, Wingham and Old Bar.
MidCoast Council’s community spaces and services director, Paul De Szell, is excited to roll the initiative out across the wider MidCoast region and give these town centres a new lease of life.
“We’ve found that relaxing the red tape and encouraging businesses to think outside the box when it comes to using the footpath in front of their business can have an incredibly positive impact on our town centres,” Mr De Szell said.
“As far as we’re concerned, Vibrant Spaces is a win-win and we’re looking forward to seeing the innovative ideas that local businesses come up with,” he said.
The six month Vibrant Spaces trial will kick off on Monday, December 5 and run through to Monday, June 5, 2017.
During this time, council staff will be coming out to each of these areas to provide guidance and assistance for those who need it.
Businesses wanting to participate are encouraged to look at the town centre maps on council’s website to see if they’re eligible for the trial and register by completing the simple online form at www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/VibrantSpaces.
For more information, businesses can get in touch with the team at MidCoast Council via email council@midcoast.nsw.gov.au or phone 6592 5399.